Teoscar Hernández Update: MLB Insider Reveals Major Hold-Up in Contract Talk With Dodgers

Contract negotiations between the Los Angeles Dodgers and free agent Teoscar Hernández have stalled because the two parties disagree on the amount of money the outfielder should receive, according to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal. Hernández wants a three-year deal between $66 million and $72 million.

While money is a point of contention with the outfielder, the Dodgers are searching for other alternatives as a right-handed hitting option, per Rosenthal. The Dodgers are considering infielder Ha-Seong Kim of the San Diego Padres, right fielder Seiya Suzuki of the Chicago Cubs, and center fielder Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox.

Hernández, 32, had a remarkable season with the Dodgers. The outfielder recorded a .272 batting average with 33 home runs, 99 runs batted in, and 12 stolen bases. Hernández not only performed well, but he also connected with the crowd in a manner that endeared the Dodgers fan base.

The last time Hernández spoke directly to Dodgers fans was at the World Series parade when he thanked everybody for believing in him.

“You guys made this dream come true. Thank you for making me a World Champion,” Hernández said through tears. “That’s how much I care, how much I appreciate everything that this organization, these fans have given to me. When I show that kind of emotion, that’s when I truly feel it. I’ve been blessed to be here.”

Hernández had always been candid about his hopes for the offseason: return to Los Angeles, he said time and time again.

“My hopes are really high,” Hernández said of re-signing. “Like I’ve said before, the Dodgers are the priority obviously. I’m going to do everything in my power to come back.”

While Hernández seemed like the most obvious free agent to return to the Dodgers, as the offseason has unfolded, it no longer seems like a guarantee.

Photo Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

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